DiNapoli Signs Off On TZ Bridge Contract

Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said today he approved the $3.14 billion contract between the state Thruway Authority and Tappan Zee Constructors to build the new Tappan Zee bridge.

“Replacing the Tappan Zee Bridge is New York state’s largest single infrastructure project and is vital to our economic prosperity,” DiNapoli said in a statement.

Tappen Zee Constructors was picked by the Thruway Authority last month to construct the new bridge, which will run over the Hudson River between Westchester and Rockland counties. It was one of three bidders.

“To protect taxpayers, my office will closely scrutinize the Thruway’s oversight of the construction of the new bridge,” DiNapoli said. “The Thruway Authority is responsible for proposing a financing plan and must live up to its commitment to pursue the lowest cost options and ensure that its customers are paying the lowest possible tolls. Every effort must be taken to minimize costs for this project and protect the long-term fiscal health of the Thruway system.”

DiNapoli said the contract approval does not constitute approval of the bridge’s financial plan or a potential toll increase. The state is hoping for as much as a $2.9 billion loan to help pay for the bridge.

The 66-month contract for the bridge was won by Tappan Zee Constructors, a joint venture of Fluor Enterprises, Inc., American Bridge Company, Granite Construction Northeast, Inc. and Traylor Bros., Inc.